Making the grade
After you've determined the slope, grading proceeds in three phases. First you strip away the sod, if any, shovel up topsoil, and set the two aside for reuse. Next, you establish the rough grade by removing or adding subsoil. Finally, you replace the topsoil, smooth it, then lay sod or plant.
Skim sod by slicing into it with a pointed spade held almost parallel to the ground. Separate sod from the soil underneath with short, jabbing strokes, rolling it up as you go. If you have lots of sod to deal with, rent a power-driven sod cutter. As you remove topsoil under the sod, chop it up to destroy any grass roots.
Attack subsoil next, driving the spade into the earth at about a 45-degree angle. Push the handle downward, then lift and pitch soil into a wheelbarrow or low spot. After moving the subsoil, break it up into chunks measuring an inch or less. If you encounter rocks, split them with a
sledge or use them as fill. Mound the fill slightly, then compact it until it's even with surrounding undisturbed soil.
After you're satisfied with the rough grade, spread out the topsoil you've saved and smooth it with a steel rake.
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